Liverpool unveil memorials for former manager Beard

Matt Beard was widely regarded as one of the most influential coaches in women's football [Getty Images] Liverpool have unveiled permanent memorials outside Anfield and at their training ground in tribute to former women's team manager Matt Beard. He died on 20 September, 2025, aged 47 , and having been in charge from 2012 to 2015 and again from 2021 to 2025. Under his management Liverpool won back-to-back Women's Super League titles in 2013 and 2014, before securing promotion back to the WSL in 2022 by winning the FA Women's Championship title. Beard was twice named WSL manager of the season, and inducted into the WSL Hall of Fame earlier this year. Players, staff and Beard's family attended a private ceremony at the club's Melwood training ground on Friday where a memorial garden in his name was unveiled. A commemorative tree was also planted in his honour on 97 Avenue outside Anfield Stadium. Liverpool's home Premier League match against Fulham on Saturday will be dedicated to the league's Together Against Suicide initiative, which raises awareness of suicide prevention and the support available. The campaign runs between 4 and 14 September to encourage conversations around suicide prevention and help reduce the stigma about people seeking support. A group of Reds supporters will also raise money for men's suicide prevention charity Andy's Man Club by walking from Melwood to the Brewdog Stadium in St Helens - Liverpool Women's home ground - before Sunday's WSL match against Tottenham. Last September the Liverpool FC Foundation launched its Kicking Off Conversations Hub to offer specialist support to fans.